The BLOG for dedicated runners

We runners are a committed bunch when it comes to putting in the miles. But when the run ends, most of us aren’t as dedicated when it comes to strengthening. I promise I’m not judging you. I’m guilty, too. But we all know that without strengthening, we run the risk of injury, or just plain plateauing.

So here’s a question: think of something you can do in 15 minutes. Maybe shower, get dressed, and brush your teeth. How about run a mile or two – maybe three if you’re a stud. Or maybe scan your three favorite blogs. Today, let’s add increasing your strength to that 15 minute list....

Swiss Ball Squats: glutes & quadsFind a wall. Stand with the swiss ball behind your lower back. Focus on pulling in your abs as you bend in to the squat. Hold for up to 15 seconds, keeping your hips aligned under shoulders and your knees aligned over your ankles. One set is 15 squats.

Swiss Ball Bridges: core & glutesLay on the ground on your back, stretch your legs, and center your feet on top of the swiss ball. While keeping your knees straight, gently lift your hips toward the ceiling. The key here is keeping your pelvis level and not overdoing it. Hold for up to 15 seconds. One set is 15 bridges.

Single-Leg Squats:Stand sideways on a sturdy step or box, one foot on the box, the other dangling off. Stretch your arms out in front of you to get some balance. Bend the leg on the box, aiming to let your heel on the dangling foot to brush the ground. Return to the starting position. Lindsey says be careful your knee doesn’t come forward over your toes or sway toward the other knee.